Macbook Vs Windows Laptop: Best Choice for 2024

In today’s tech-savvy world, where everyone has at least 1 laptop, choosing the perfect laptop as per everyone’s changing needs can feel confusing.

On one side, you have the sleek and stylish MacBooks, popular with creative people and Apple fans. On the other side, there’s the diverse world of Windows laptops, which cater to everyone from gamers to business professionals.

So, it’s obvious to ask

How to Choose Between Macbook and Windows Laptop?

Both platforms have been in the market for a long time and cater to different types of users. Let’s dive into the key differences, strengths, and quirks of MacBooks and Windows laptops across several aspects to help you find the right match.

1. Operating System

MacBooks run on macOS , which is popular for its sleek design, stability, and seamless integration with other Apple devices. Personally, I think the user interface is intuitive and consistent across all Apple products, making it appealing to existing Apple users.

In addition to that, features like Handoff, AirDrop, and Universal Clipboard enhance productivity and connectivity, crafting a better experience for you.

On the other hand, Microsoft Windows OS focuses more on the customizable user experience. I consider it as a blank canvas, allowing you to customize your user experience to fit your needs. It’s compatible with a vast array of software and hardware, making it a favourite for technical professionals and gamers.

Although the Windows ecosystem is not as tightly integrated as Apple’s, their services like Office 365, OneDrive, and other productivity tools are heavily used in professional environments, offering flexibility and options for different user needs.

Score: Macbook: 8/10 | Windows: 7/10

2. User Experience

Not to be biased but I would describe my experience with Macbook as smooth and intuitive. I genuinely think the macOS interface is super friendly, responsive and natural.

The seamless integration with other Apple products and attention to detail in both software and hardware design enhances productivity and creates a cohesive digital environment.

Whereas Windows laptops offer a highly customizable experience, but the user interface can vary greatly depending on the laptop brand.

I tried using Windows 11 for a few weeks for this article, and it’s more cohesive and visually appealing than previous Windows versions, but I still think it lacks the uniformity and refinement found in macOS.

Score: Macbook: 8/10 | Windows: 6.5/10

Also Read: 9 Things to Check when Buying a Used Macbook in 2024

3. Hardware Options

MacBooks offer a limited but highly curated selection of hardware, with each model crafted to meet specific performance and design standards.

The unibody aluminium construction and Retina displays are standout features, but the choices are restricted to a few models with fixed memory and storage configurations.

The latest M-series models, including the M1 and M2 chips, are powerhouses in terms of performance and energy efficiency. However, these models come with integrated motherboards, RAM, and SSDs, which means you can’t easily upgrade components like RAM from 8GB to 16GB through third-party vendors.

On the other hand:

Windows laptops, come in a vast array of options. From budget-friendly models to high-end gaming rigs, there’s something for everyone. You can easily upgrade RAM, SSD, and even graphics cards as their needs change, providing flexibility and longevity that MacBooks can’t match.

Score: Macbook: 7/10 | Windows: 8/10

4. Pricing

It’s quite intuitive for almost everyone that MacBooks are generally more expensive than similarly spec Windows machines. It’s mainly due to their premium design, build quality and brand value.

While the initial cost is higher, the investment often pays off in the long run due to its longevity and better resale value. In 2024, the Macbook Air starts from almost INR 65000 and the Macbook Pro series starts from INR 1.5 Lacks.

(FYI, You can get a similar machine at Almost 30% to 40% Discount at Lapicart!)

Windows laptops, however, come with a broader range of pricing options and cater to all budgets. From affordable models to high-end machines for intensive work or gaming, there’s a Windows laptop for every budget.

This pricing flexibility allows users to find a device that fits their wallets without compromising on essential features or performance.

Score: Macbook: 7/10 | Windows: 8.5/10

5. External Body Design

When it comes to external body design, MacBooks are way ahead of their own with their premium build quality. The unibody aluminium construction is not only durable but also sleek and stylish. From smooth edges to backlit keyboards, we can prominently experience this attention to detail in every aspect.

Windows laptops, while offering a range of variety – from traditional design to innovative 2-in-1 convertibles from various manufacturers.

While some high-end models from brands like Dell and HP can match MacBooks in terms of aesthetics and build quality, the overall design consistency varies widely across different models and price ranges.

Score: Macbook: 9/10 | Windows: 6/10

6. Software and Application Compatability

Macbooks are known for their strong security features and lower susceptibility to malware and viruses compared to Windows. That’s the reason why macOS has a strong emphasis on creative and professional software and allows only a curated selection of applications.

Windows, however, takes the crown in software compatibility. From enterprise solutions to an extensive library of games, Windows is the go-to platform for almost all kinds of users.

Score: Macbook: 7/10 | Windows: 8/10

7. Value for Money

MacBooks, despite their higher price, offer excellent value due to their durability, performance, and overall integration within the Apple ecosystem. The longevity and resale value of MacBooks can make the higher upfront cost worthwhile for many of you.

On the other hand:

Windows laptops provide value through their wide range of options and competitive pricing. Users can find devices tailored to their specific needs, whether for casual use, professional work, or gaming.

The flexibility in configurations and pricing ensures that Windows laptops offer something for everyone, making them a strong contender in terms of value for money.

Score: Macbook: 9/10 | Windows: 9/10

Should You Buy a Macbook or a Windows Laptop in 2024?

To be completely honest with you, I’m no Apple fan, and what I mean by that is that I don’t like Apple products just because they’re Apple products.

You might feel odd but I have some strong opinions regarding iPhones. I personally think they are a total waste of money and are not even close to the best phones out there.

However on the other hand: I’m in love with Macbooks!

It’s literally weightless, highly portable, and offers good sound quality and a mind-blowing display. From the way Macbook feels in my hands and their amazing battery life to the way their keyboard flows and of course superbly crazy touch bar, everything makes a lot of sense to me.

As per my experience:

If you’re into coding stuff, design, sound engineering and photo editing, and less into gaming, a MacBook offers almost everything you need and is the ideal system for you.

Whereas, windows laptops, especially Lenovo offer quite high-end specs at lower prices, ideal for gaming and professional use.

If you’re looking for high specs but you’re extremely tight on budget, it’s okay to switch to a Windows laptop but otherwise, Macbooks are really powerful and cool machines to own.